We’re so happy to welcome back Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife—someone whose voice and work have shaped our thinking in really lasting ways.
Today we’re talking with Jennifer about her brand-new book, published by Faith Matters: That We Might Have Joy: Desire, Divinity, and Intimate Love.
The book offers an honest look at how sexual intimacy can reveal the truth of a relationship—and how, for those willing to confront that truth, it can serve as the starting point for deep joy, spiritual transcendence, and communion with another soul.
It reframes sexual intimacy not as something separate from our faith, but as an integral part of it—a way of knowing ourselves and another person, and of developing fully into our divine potential.
In this conversation we explore what intimacy requires, and how it’s not about just saying the right things, playing the right role, or “becoming selfless”—it’s about showing up fully, even when it’s uncomfortable. Jennifer makes the powerful case that true intimacy can’t be faked, and that our bodies and our partners always know when we’re hiding.
We talk about the traps so many couples fall into—cycles of accommodation, avoidance, pressure, or silence—and how our hunger for validation often gets in the way of real connection. And, maybe most importantly, Jennifer helps us see that the tension in our relationships isn’t a sign that something’s broken.
We loved this conversation and are excited to share it with you. Jennifer’s book will be released September 30, but you’ll be able to purchase advanced copies of the book at Restore in just a few weeks.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOOK:
Our ability to publish important books like this is directly funded by your generous donations, so as a thank you, we’re sending a free advance copy of this book to the Friends of Faith Matters. To be sure you’re on our mailing list, donate by August 22! If you are a paid Substack subscriber, you are already a Friend of Faith Matters. If you have any questions about your donation, please email us at info@faithmatters.org.
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NEWLY ANNOUNCED SPEAKERS AT RESTORE
GET A FREE GIFT FROM US WHEN YOU SWING BY THE COMPASS
If you’re in Utah county this month, swing by The Compass Gallery on Center St in Provo any time during business hours (12-8pm, Thursday, Friday, & Saturday) and pick up a free gift from us when you tell them Faith Matters sent you. Then stay and browse through the expansive artwork (J. Kirk Richards’ new collection Come Thou Fount launches August 22!) and check out our upcoming events while you’re there!
LAST CHANCE TO SUBMIT YOUR ART TO THE RESTORE ART SHOW!
STUDY “COME FOLLOW ME” WITH FAITH MATTERS
What does the Word of Wisdom have to offer us in the modern world?
What value is there in the Word of Wisdom? What can we learn about how revelation happens for the Church, and for us as individuals? Is it really true that “All things shall work together for [my] good”?
What does it mean to receive further light and knowledge?
How do I take advantage of grace? What does it mean that the glory of God is light, or that Jesus is the light of the world? How can I reframe "obedience" in a way that feels healing?
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